10 Essential Questions About Travelling to Oman—Answered

Coastal cityscape with white buildings along a curved waterfront road, bordered by a calm sea. A mosque with a blue dome and minaret stands out. Rugged mountains rise in the background under a clear sky.
Aerial view of a lush, green oasis town (Nizwa) with numerous palm trees and tan buildings. Mountains are visible in the background under a golden sunset sky. Modern and traditional structures coexist in the landscape.
Sunset over a tropical beach with palm trees and vibrant orange clouds. The shoreline is lined with sunbeds and thatched umbrellas. A lush, grassy area with pathways is to the right. People are seen strolling along the paths.
A large, white mosque with intricate carvings and a grand dome on a clear day. The structure features tall minarets and arched doorways, surrounded by manicured greenery and reflecting on a polished surface under a blue sky.
Two men in traditional attire play drums while standing against a beige wall. They wear light blue robes and white head coverings. One man gestures with his hand, as if engaged in conversation.
The emblematic Mutrah Corniche is a must-visit.
The old part of Nizwa in the sunset

Planning a trip to Oman? Whether you’re drawn to its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, or warm hospitality, this guide will help you get started. What’s the best time to visit? How do you get around? What cultural etiquette should you know? Here are the answers to some essential questions about Oman. Let’s dive in!

1. Where is Oman, and how do I get there?

Dhow boats in Sur
Oman has a coastline of 3,165 km

Oman is in the south-eastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. It stretches along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, giving it over 3,000 kilometres of stunning coastline and diverse landscapes.

Getting here is easy! You can access Oman by air, land, and by sea. Most travellers fly into Muscat International Airport, which has connections to major cities worldwide. But there are also airports in Salalah, Duqm, and Khasab. If you’re coming from the UAE, you can also drive or take a bus across one of the borders — it’s a scenic road trip. Another way to arrive in the Sultanate is to book a cruise which will call port at either the Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat or at the Salalah Port.

2. What are the best times of year to visit Oman?

Lush, green landscape in Dhofar during Khareef
During khareef season in Dhofar, the vegetation is lush and green

The best time to visit Oman is between October and April when the weather is pleasantly warm — perfect for exploring. Summers (May to September) can be extremely hot, especially inland, but if you’re visiting Dhofar in the south, the Khareef (monsoon) season from June to August transforms the landscape into lush greenery, which is a unique experience! You can also visit Masirah island which benefits from a breeze.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Oman?

passport with visas
Always make sure you check the latest visa requirements before a trip.

It depends on your nationality! Many travellers can get a visa on arrival, apply for an e-visa online before their trip, or in some cases don’t even need a tourist visa if their stay is shorter than 14 days. Oman also offers visa-free entry for visitors who are UCC nationals (the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates). The rules change from time to time, so I always recommend checking the official website for the latest updates before you travel.

4. What are must-visit places?

The old part of Nizwa in the sunset
The old part of Nizwa in the sunset

Muscat is a great starting point with the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Mutrah Souq. Nizwa is famous for its historic fort and lively market. The ancient town of Bahla, a UNESCO site, is a must-see, and you can’t miss the beautifully preserved mud-brick villages of Misfat Al Abriyeen or Birkat-al-Mouz. In the south, around Salalah, you will find outstanding beaches and stunning cliffs and, inland, the mountainous regions of Jabel Akhdar or Jabel Shams offer splendid hiking areas. Every region has its own cultural gems waiting to be explored!

5. What unique cultural experiences can I have in Oman?

Camel race
Attending a camel race is a truly cultural experience

Oman is all about deep, immersive experiences. You can join a traditional Omani cooking class, witness the art of incense-making in Salalah, or watch a lively camel race. If you love music and dance, I would recommend attending a traditional Omani performance. And for something truly special, you should spend a night in the desert with the Bedouins, listening to stories under a sky full of stars. I find this magical!

6. What should I wear in Oman?

Woman wearing long dress at the beach

Oman is quite relaxed, but it’s good to dress modestly, especially in public places. For women, long, loose clothing like maxi skirts, dresses, or lightweight trousers with a blouse work well. Men typically wear long trousers and a T-shirt or shirt. In the mosques, both men and women should cover their arms and legs, and women need a scarf to cover their hair. If you’re heading to the beach, a one-piece swimsuit and a cover-up is a good idea for public areas.

For more detailed info about this, see my post on what to pack. It includes a practical packing list at the end of the post.

7. How do I get around in Oman?

I would say that renting a car is the best way to explore Oman, as public transport is limited outside the cities. The roads are well-maintained, and driving gives you the freedom to visit remote wadis and villages. If you’re staying in Muscat, taxis and apps like Otaxi work well for short trips. For adventure seekers, you can either rent a 4×4 or book a ride with a guide who can accompany you in exploring the desert or the mountains.

8. What food should I try in Oman?

Sharing mishkag in Oman
A very popular dish in Oman is Mishkag, meat on skewers, and can be bought at local road-side stalls.

Omani food is full of rich flavours and spices! Try shuwa, a slow-cooked lamb dish prepared in underground sand ovens, and majboos, a spiced rice dish similar to biryani. Mashuai (grilled kingfish with rice) is a seafood favorite. Don’t leave without tasting halwa, a sweet dessert, and enjoying a cup of Omani coffee (kahwa) served with dates—an essential part of Omani hospitality.

Omani cuisine has many influences coming from India, Iran, Pakistan, and Africa. So the dishes are very cosmopolitan.

9. What are some unique souvenirs or art forms I can bring back?

Terracotta pots from Bahla
You can buy terracotta pots in many souqs – including in Nizwa

Oman has beautiful handcrafted souvenirs. Look for silver jewellery or the iconic Omani khanjar (dagger). Frankincense from Salalah is a must-buy, as well as handmade pottery from Bahla. If you love textiles, pick up a beautifully embroidered mussar (traditional Omani turban) or a handwoven sado bag.

10. How can I connect with locals and experience Omani hospitality?

Hands painted with henna
It is traditional to paint women’s hands with Henna

I would advise you to visit a local souq and chat with shopkeepers, join a cultural workshop, or stay in a guesthouse run by an Omani family. If you’re lucky, you might get invited for Omani coffee and dates —it’s a wonderful way to experience true Omani hospitality first-hand.

This essential guide to Oman has given you a glimpse of what to expect during your visit to Oman. Continue exploring to discover more about the Sultanate and its culture!

More frequently asked questions

When is it cold in Oman?

Oman’s coolest months are from December to February, especially in the desert at night and in higher altitudes like Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, where temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F). Coastal areas like Muscat stay mild, but you’ll still want a light jacket for the evenings.

Can I drink alcohol in Oman?

Yes, alcohol is available in Oman, but only in licensed hotels, restaurants, and private clubs—and only for non-Muslim adults over 21. You won’t find it in supermarkets, and drinking in public is strictly prohibited. During Ramadan, alcohol sales may pause altogether. If you do choose to drink, do so discreetly and never drive afterwards—Oman has very strict penalties for drunk driving.

What is the main language in Oman?

The official language of Oman is Arabic. You’ll hear it in many beautiful forms—from classical Qur’anic Arabic to the warm, everyday dialects spoken in homes, souqs, and mountain villages. English is widely understood in cities and tourist areas, so getting around is easy—but learning a few Arabic phrases is a wonderful way to connect more deeply with the culture.

Are public displays of affection allowed in Oman?

.In Omani culture, modesty is highly valued, and public displays of affection—such as hugging, kissing, and holding hands—are generally discouraged and can be considered offensive. To respect local customs and avoid potential legal issues, it’s advisable to keep affectionate gestures private.​

Is Oman an expensive holiday destination?

Oman can be as affordable or as luxurious as you choose. While high-end resorts and desert camps do exist, there are also budget guesthouses, simple local restaurants, and plenty of free natural wonders to explore. Renting a car is often the biggest cost, but it gives you the freedom to experience Oman on your own terms. With a bit of planning, a trip here can be manageable.